What it does
Zotero GPT is an add-on for Zotero, the reference manager, that connects it to an AI chat model.
You can ask questions about the PDF you are reading or about a selected paper, summarise papers into a few sentences, and search your library using plain-language text.
You add your own AI service key in the plug-in's settings.
Who it's for
Researchers and students who use Zotero and want AI help reading and searching papers.
Can I use it without coding?
With some setup. You install a plug-in file into Zotero and add your own AI service key. New to this? Start here.
Can I run it?
- Cost
- Free, but needs an AI accountThe software is free, but it uses an online AI service (like OpenAI or Anthropic), which usually charges for use.
- Runs on
- Mac, Windows, Linux
- Computer
- An ordinary computer is fine
- Privacy
- Sends what you give it to an online service
- API key
- Needed. An API key is a password-like code from an online AI service. What's that?
Try it
- Download the plug-in file from the project's releases page.
- Install it in Zotero from the add-ons menu.
- Open its settings and add your AI service key.
Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?
Before you install
- Only download from the official GitHub page or the official download page above. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
- License (AGPL-3.0): Free to use; if you run a changed version as an online service, you must share your source code.
- Keep your API key private. Never paste it into websites or share it, and set a spending limit with the AI service.
- What you type or upload is sent to an online service. Avoid sharing private or sensitive information.
- More on staying safe